THE CAPITOL COFFEE CONNECTION

Bryan Barnett Mayor of Rochester Hills Ep.29

Join Liz as she sits down with Rochester Hills' mayor Bryan Barnett for an insightful conversation from the sorrow of losing his father at a tender age to standing up for his community as a public servant, Bryan’s journey is a testament to determination, resilience, and service to his community. Together, they explore a wide range of topics, from the importance of non-partisan governance to the exciting developments of the Innovation Hills project. Along the way, they also touch on personal anecdotes, such as the mayor's cherished advice from his grandmother and his favorite pizza joint, Antonio's Town Square Pizza. But the conversation goes beyond the personal. They delve into the city's strategic approach to park accessibility, its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the significant role played by Oakland University in fostering community unity. As a suburban mayor, he shares his perspective on governance and his commitment to earning trust and caring for people, qualities that led to his presidency of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Beyond politics, the mayor reveals his passions, including biking and a diverse taste in music. He dreams of visiting Australia and New Zealand but finds solace in the serene landscapes of Michigan lakes. Community service is at the core of his values, and he finds joy in attending Oakland University games and witnessing the happiness and safety that characterize Rochester Hills. Tune in to discover the insights and initiatives that have made Rochester Hills a vibrant and joyful community under the leadership of its mayor.

Francis Suarez Mayor of Miami Ep.28

Celebrate Women's History Month with an extraordinary episode featuring Miami Mayor Francis Suarez. In this special tribute, Mayor Suarez, a proud Cuban American, shares his profound admiration for his wife, weaving her pivotal role into the tapestry of his leadership journey. Mayor Suarez admires his wife's innate goodness, growth, and their bond, contrasting his adaptation to equality with his patriarchal upbringing, emphasizing acts of service as her love language. Join us as we honor the strength, resilience, and unwavering support of women, embodied in Mayor Suarez's touching testament to his wife's influence. In addition Miami's Mayor Francis Suarez, discussing the nonpartisan role of mayors, emphasizing community service and unity. Suarez, drawing from his Cuban-American heritage, stresses the importance of family, faith, integrity, and gratitude in shaping leadership. He reflects on personal experiences that influence perspectives, the balance between public service and family life, and the significance of marital support and shared parenting responsibilities. Suarez's narrative underscores the impact of upbringing and the value of focusing on commonalities for effective governance.

Christina Muryn Findlay Ohio Mayor Ep.27

In this riveting episode of Capitol Coffee Connection, we get to know Christina Muryn, the dynamic Mayor of Findlay, Ohio up close and personal. From her humble beginnings in Findlay to her roles as a public servant, Christina unreservedly shares her unique story of growth and resilience.
Mayor Muryn shares with Liz her life's journey, from growing up near Marathon Petroleum and Whirlpool Corporation Headquarters to leading with a focus on non-partisan governance and citizen welfare. She details overcoming personal adversities, her Christian faith's role in her mayoral duties, and initiatives in opioid work, marriage support, and mental health.
Mayor Muryn also highlights the significance of youth support, female leadership, and community engagement, sharing insights into her work-life balance, including a cherished Polynesian meal tradition and dreams of Paris, underscoring her commitment to positive community impact and compassionate leadership.

Sarah McBride Delaware State Senator Ep.26

In this episode Liz welcomes special guest Sarah McBride, a state senator in Delaware and the first transgender state senator in the U.S. McBride is currently running for the U.S. Congress seat held by Lisa Blunt Rochester. She shared her personal journey, including her upbringing in Wilmington, Delaware, coming out as transgender at the end of her tenure as student body president at American University, and her influential work with former Delaware Governor Jack Markell and former Attorney General of Delaware Beau Biden. McBride has also contributed to Delaware's gender identity non-discrimination act and served as the national spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign. She has written a memoir, "Tomorrow Will Be Different: Love, Loss, and The Fight For Trans Equality," detailing her life and that of her late husband, Andy. McBride also shares personal anecdotes, her love for fried chicken, and the origin of her aspiration for public service.

Representative Chris Pappas Ep.25

In this episode, Liz interviews the first openly gay member of Congress from New Hampshire's first district Chris Pappas, who brings a unique perspective with a Greek American background. Delving into the pressing issue of the opioid crisis, Rep Pappas emphasizes bipartisanship and the crucial role of youth in addressing addiction and mental health. Beyond politics, get a glimpse into the Congressman’s daily life, including a love for granola, The Beatles, and household chores. Balancing congressional duties with a recent marriage and a dream of vacationing in Greece, this dedicated public servant shares insights into his commitment to constituents and joys outside of work. And did you know, Rep Chris Pappas Grandfather in 1974 invented the Chicken Tender?

Wendy Greuel Fmr LA City Controller Ep.24

In this episode of the Capitol Coffee Connection, host Liz Hirsh Naftali interviews Wendy Greuel, a former Los Angeles City Councilwoman and Controller. The discussion covers Greuel’s extensive public service history, including her roles with the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority and Cal State University, as well as her personal experiences as a mother while in office. Greuel's childhood in the San Fernando Valley, her tenure with Mayor Tom Bradley, and her current position on the Emily's List national board are also discussed. Greuel shares her affinity for community service and her hobbies outside of work, including her love for burgers, fries, and hockey.

Representative Jimmy Gomez Ep.23

Join host Liz Hirsh Naftali in this revealing episode of The Capitol Coffee Connection, where she engages with the hard-working Congressman Jimmy Gomez. Dive into the life of Gomez, from his early years as a child of immigrants, through a transformative educational journey from community college to Harvard, to his vital role as a representative for the 34th district of California which includes L.A. and a full-time father. Experience Gomez's candid revelations about his life transitions, family responsibilities, and the little joys that keep him grounded despite the strenuous nature of his job.

Representative Marcy Kaptur Ep.22

In this episode, Liz engages in a heart-to-heart conversation with Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, representing Ohio's 9th congressional district for an impressive 41 years. Rep Marcy Kaptur shares her upbringing in Toledo, Ohio, as a second-generation Polish-American, emphasizing the importance of family, faith, and the lessons learned from her patriotic relatives. Join the conversation to discover the human stories behind political figures and explore the shared experiences that connect us all.

Representative Ritchie Torres Ep.21

Richie Torres, the distinguished congressman representing New York's 15th district joins Liz for coffee! Rep Torres, the youngest elected official in New York City Council at 25, shares his inspiring journey from growing up in poverty in the Bronx to becoming the first openly LGBTQ person elected to this office. Rep Torres sheds light on the challenges faced by his single mother, the impact of public housing conditions, and the resilience that shaped his remarkable path. From overcoming personal struggles to advocating for change, Rep Torres reveals the transformative power of gratitude and discusses the crucial role of relationships in navigating the political landscape.

Representative Becca Balint Ep.20

In this episode of the Capitol Coffee Connection podcast, Liz Hirsh Naftali hosts Congresswoman Becca Balint who shares her views on the concept of awe and its positive impacts on human lives. The Congresswoman, an outdoor enthusiast and advocate of ongoing learning and open-mindedness, touches on her past as a teacher, her struggle with mental health, her own childhood struggles and the importance of strong family support. Rep Balint underscores the pitfalls of pretense in politics, the significance of authenticity, her hobbies such as motorbiking and rock climbing, and gratitude for a developmental dialogue.